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We all know the symbolic features of Canada — maple leaves, hockey, crimson-clad Mounties, and, of course, public healthcare. But just because Canadians enjoy basic health coverage, doesn't mean they should rule out a private health insurance plan altogether. Make your health (and your family’s health) a priority and get insured.

Why do I need health insurance?

All Canadians and permanent residents can apply for public health insurance, but it may not be enough coverage for the medical procedures or care that you need. The fact is, if you don’t have health benefits through your employer, if you’re losing your group coverage, or your current benefits aren’t sufficient, you should apply for health insurance.

At the moment, the public system doesn’t cover dental costs, hospital rooms, eyeglasses, ambulance services, or many prescription drugs. According to the OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development), nearly 30% of all healthcare dollars spent in Canada are the result of private expenditures.

The good news: investing in a private health insurance plan helps you avoid paying for these expenses out-of-pocket. So, if you have a health condition or want to protect yourself from unexpected health care bills, get a private health insurance plan.

How does health insurance work?

The process is similar to that of most other insurance products. You pay a premium now to get access to health benefits that will help offset any future medical bills. Your health insurance will cover a portion of (or all of) certain medical costs, like a prescription, eye exam, or dental expense. Then you just have to pay the remainder (if applicable).

How do I get a quote?

We’ve partnered with Manulife Financial to help you get a health insurance quote, fast. Just click here or on the ‘Get Started’ button above. You’ll be sent to our co-branded website, where you can apply for a quote or purchase coverage online.

What does a private health insurance plan cover?

A private medical insurance plan in Canada usually covers the health care, services, and medication that Canada’s government plan (or your employer’s plan) doesn’t. When you apply for private health insurance, you can get coverage for the following, depending on the type of plan you select:

Eye exams

Dental care

Physiotherapy

Prescription eyewear

Prescription medication

Hearing aids

Hospital stays

Medical equipment

Ambulance services

Paramedical services

Do I qualify for health insurance?

Most likely. However, eligibility requirements differ by plan and provider. For example, most health insurance providers will require you to have provincial health coverage before you can be eligible for a personal plan.

Some insurance companies may also ask you to complete a medical exam. If you have a pre-existing condition, you may be denied medical coverage or offered limited benefits.

And if you’re retiring or leaving your job, you must apply for health insurance within 60 days of losing your current coverage. In most cases, you’ll also need to meet the insurance provider’s age requirements — applicants for this type of medical insurance often need to be 74 or younger.

Do health insurance rates vary by province?

They can. Health insurance plans are handled at the provincial and territorial level. As a result, public health insurance plans differ slightly in each province, which means private health insurance plans may differ as well. And since each province’s private health insurance plans may need to fill different gaps in coverage, average rates will vary.

But don’t worry. Whether you live in Ontario, Alberta, Quebec or any other region in Canada, we can help you compare health insurance and find the best rate available in your area.

Why should I shop for health insurance online?

To make sure you’re getting the best deal — plain and simple. Health insurance rates, like rates for any other type of insurance, will vary by provider and the only way to guarantee you get the right policy at a fair price is by comparing rates. And it just so happens that online comparing is easy and free.

How do I save money on health insurance?

Health insurance isn’t cheap, but there are ways to make it more affordable. Here are the three steps you need to take to get a better rate on your health insurance.

Take care of yourself: Many insurers will consider your current health status when setting your rate. If you have a pre-existing medical condition (a condition you had prior to applying for health benefits), you may require more care, future procedures, or expensive medication — so your rate will be higher. Do your best to stay healthy, or improve your health, and your rate will likely improve as well.

Check your existing coverage: You may already have some form of health insurance — either from the provincial government or from an employer. Make sure you check your existing coverage plan and identify which additional benefits you actually need before you shop for health insurance.

Compare health insurance rates: Different insurance companies will offer different plans at competitive rates, so don’t settle for the first price you’re quoted. Shop around first and make sure you’ve secured the best rate available.